- last post: 01.01.0001 12:00 AM PDT
It's really no issue at all in my eyes.
What amuses me is the inevitable fuss that springs up following the 'discovery' of the thing; mostly by individuals whom seem unlikely to be affected.
It's obvious elitism exists on the Bungie.net forum, but it's existence has little to do with the titles next to an individual's avatar. Elitism, at least in any form worth complaining about, doesn't really care for labels as it's existence and power is drawn from the fact that those individuals whom make up the 'elite' share common goals and all work towards a shared ideal. Furthermore, the communication between such individuals is nothing if it fails to influence or at least occasionally result in the exercise of real power.
I could go on, but bearing the simple observations above in mind I doubt it is beyond the capacity of any mind to grasp how and why elitism is here to stay at Bungie.net and, equally, why resistance to it is a monumental waste of effort.
In short, if the new system truly offends someone then they are probably best writing eloquent and witty essays explaining why the deployment of the thing will surely result in all kinds of mayhem and, if it is well written enough, they will only warm the hearts of the Masters (any opportunity to indulge in verbose and pointless debate is always keenly received). On the other hand, offended types also run the risk of being exposed as intellectually void or, in any case, inferior, and as such will be verbally destroyed by 'greater minds'.
Either way, if one can refrain from rude or inappropriate language, it's all quite fun.
The system is irrelevant. Bungie.net and the Masters of Bungie.net have never made a secret of their goals. They are to be Lords of all they survey and those residents whom choose to visit the online playground they have provided will abide the rules of the Masters or be banished.... perhaps for eternity.
That is the nature of this beast. Enjoy.
[Edited on 12.22.2007 3:05 AM PST]